You use it twice a day for two (...ish) minutes but how much time do you spend thinking about your toothbrush?

Considering the fact that brushing your teeth used to consist of scraping them clean with a twig, I'd say we've come quite a long way. But have we come too far? For such a simple tool there are certainly a myriad of colorful and textured monstrosities out there, with their orange clumps of bristles pointing one direction and their blue clumps another, while they "sweep" debris off your teeth.

And while I love my Sonicare as much as the next girl, design-wise I tend to favor simple brushes that look less like elaborate running shoes and more like what they actually are. These toothbrushes get their pizazz from ergonomic shapes, cool materials and yes, even pops of color.

Top Row:1. Not only are Preserve toothbrushes recyclable after you've used them, they're made from 100% recycled plastic sourced from yogurt cups. Available from Preserve.2. These rainbow brushes avoid countertop germs by hooking onto your cup, shower caddy or cabinet. Available from GoodJoyDesign.3. It may look like a straight razor, but this foldable Brillo toothbrush from METAPHYS is a handy travel tool. Available from AssistOn.4. Although it's only a prototype, this genius device pre-loads your brush with a measured amount of toothpaste so it's travel-ready with one step. Designed by Kawamura Ganjavian. 5. These handsome Izola bamboo brushes assure there won't be any mix-ups when guests arrive. Available from Amazon.

Bottom Row:6. These cool Japanese toothbrushes are ergonomic, made of corn plastic, and they're about the edgiest thing I've ever wanted to put in my mouth. Available fromYumaki.7. The rounded, weighted handle on this prototype will rock but won't fall due to its low center of gravity. Designed by Ryan Harc8. Okay, so it's not a real toothbrush, but check out this genius Colgate ad campaign to remind kids to brush their teeth! Created by Y&R Agency, Bangkok, Thailand. Via Toxel.